Paper Weight (GSM to lb) Calculator

About this calculator

This calculator converts metric gsm (grams per square meter) — a single, category-independent measure of paper density — into US basis weight in pounds, which is defined differently for each paper category because it's the weight of a ream (500 sheets) cut to that category's traditional “basic size”: 25×38 in for text/book paper, 20×26 in for cover stock, and 17×22 in for bond/writing paper. That's why the same gsm value produces a different pound number depending on whether you're converting for text, cover, or bond stock — the conversion factor isn't universal.

Graphic designers and print buyers use this to translate a European or Asian printer's gsm spec into the US pound ratings that American paper suppliers list, and print shops use it to make sure a client's requested “80 lb text” and “80 lb cover” — which are not the same actual thickness — are matched correctly to the job.